nysepost.com

Seekonk mosquito pool tests positive for West Nile Virus

With a "good deal" of summer remaining, people such take the proper precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

According to the district, crews will begin trapping adult mosquitoes in the area where the virus was discovered and will have results early next week.

While West Nile Virus can infect people of all ages, town officials said people over the age of 50 are at higher risk for severe infection.

There have already been two human cases of the virus in IL this year. For instance, in our area, Asian Tiger mosquitoes which are carriers for Zika virus primarily bite very aggressively during the day.

The news marks the city's first human case this season.

Eliminate mosquito breeding areas by addressing areas in your yard where rainwater collects. The insects breed in standing water, so regularly tipping out wading pools, buckets, bird baths and outdoor pet bowls is one way to keep mosquitoes at bay. Treat large water areas and hard puddles with larvicide pellets to prevent mosquito larvae from maturing.

The agency also advises people to use insect repellent, fix and replace worn screens on doors and windows, and remove stagnant, shallow water or puddles on a weekly basis to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.

People are most vulnerable to the West Nile Virus in August and September. But, serious illness such as encephalitis and meningitis, with lingering complications and even death, are possible. "Initial symptoms in those who become ill include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and tiredness".